“The staff went the extra mile for us and we even spoke to an original evacuee… The experience was authentic and a packed day with activities”
Bluebell Railway education department
The Bluebell Railway runs 11 miles north from Sheffield Park to Horsted Keynes, Kingscote and East Grinstead where it connects with Southern mainline trains. In all it provides a 22 mile round trip. The Railway’s four stations, its locomotives and its rolling stock cover a period of railway history from the 1870s to the 1950s and as such provide children with a unique insight into a way of life that has largely disappeared from the United Kingdom today.
Visits can be tailored to meet specific teaching needs relating to the National Curriculum, or to provide experience of specific events, such as WWII evacuation exercises, or occasions, such as enrichment days. Trains normally depart Sheffield Park Station for the 1 hour 40 minute return journey but other arrangements are possible.
Fares & facilities
- School Visits: £10.00 pp
- WWII Evacuation Package: £11.50 pp
We are pleased to be able to offer 1 free adult for every 6 children booked on school packages with us. Additional adults will be charged at £16.00 pp.
Other than refreshments and retail goods from the shop the above fares are inclusive. Bookings must be made at least a month before travel, bookings requested less than a month before travel will be at the discretion of the railway. Payment will be by invoice after travel.
Gift bags are available. Please request these at the time of booking if they are required.
Free car and coach parking: available at both Sheffield Park and Horsted Keynes stations but due to planning restrictions there is no parking at Kingscote station. At East Grinstead station there is limited disabled parking available but no Bluebell car or coach facilities. Public car parks, however, are available nearby.
Accessibility: a carriage for wheelchair-bound or mobility impaired visitors is normally available.
Reserved seating: seating in open plan carriages is reserved for groups starting their journeys at Sheffield Park. Unfortunately, no seats can be reserved on departures from East Grinstead.
Toilets: available on board most trains (not disabled) and at all four stations with disabled facilities available at Sheffield Park, Kingscote, and East Grinstead stations.
Picnic areas: outdoor picnic areas are available at Sheffield Park, Horsted Keynes, and Kingscote Stations. In case of wet weather Sheffield Park, Horsted Keynes and Kingscote stations all have canopied areas on the platforms which provide cover. There are also Waiting Rooms at Horsted Keynes and Kingscote Stations. Snacks can also be eaten on board the train.
Gift Shop: Sheffield Park Station – a souvenir pack can be made up in advance of your visit.
Guided visits: an experienced guide is normally available to accompany the party.
Preliminary visits and risk assessment
It is the responsibility of schools to conduct satisfactory risk assessments prior to their visit but the Bluebell can assist in two ways:
- Free preliminary visit for up to two teaching staff on an agreed date, including a trip on the train. This will provide the opportunity to inspect the facilities on offer, and to discuss any specific needs with our experienced staff. Arrangements for such visits should be made via the Sales and Information Office or the Education Officer.
- Guidance as to the risk assessment factors that will need to be taken into account during these visits.
Safeguarding
The Bluebell Railway values and encourages the involvement of people of all ages and circumstances It is committed to promoting their well-being and enjoyment and protecting their health, safety and welfare.
Our Safeguarding Policy and Incident Reporting System set out the arrangements for ensuring the safety and welfare of children and vulnerable adults whilst on the Bluebell Railway’s premises or while engaging in activities controlled by the Bluebell Railway.
Information sheets
To assist schools when planning visits to the Bluebell, the Railway has produced a series of information sheets. These are designed to provide information across a range of subjects in a straightforward manner suitable for a range of age groups.
